Old Irontown is said to be the very first ghost town in Utah. While its location might feel a little spooky, it's the history of Old Irontown that makes visitors want to stop here when they visit the southern part of Utah.
Some consider Old Irontown to be a haunted ghost town because a lot isn't known about this remote area in Dixie National Forest. In the 1870s, a few iron companies tried their luck in this part of Utah. However, due to the economic downturn at that time, the iron companies didn't stay around very long. And, by the 1880s, all residents left the town.
Nowadays, Old Irontown's unique history makes it an off-the-beaten-path stop for archeological buffs visiting Utah. Thirty years ago, the site was also added to the National Register of Historic Places.
To reach this ghost town, head west on UT-56 from Cedar City. Make a left off the south side of the highway; just after the sign for Old Irontown. Continue on the road for about three miles (or until you reach the path to the ruins).
While it's only 20 miles from Cedar City, you'll need to drive about four hours to reach Old Irontown from Salt Lake City.
advertisement
Old Irontown is currently 152-years-old and is defined as an unincorporated community.
Take the Discovery Trail to reach the historical part of Old Irontown.
The charcoal kiln is one of the landmarks in the ghost town.
Pictured are the remains of a home in Old Irontown.
advertisement
This is a chimney that's remained almost completely intact for more than 150 years.
This sign references the former mill in the town that was used to sift for minerals.
For many, the holiday season is one of the most wonderful times of the year. If you plan on escaping to Utah, we suggest heading to Park City. During December, you'll get to experience a Park City Main Street Christmas and enjoy this historic Utah town all decked out for the holidays. Read on to learn more about the magic awaiting when you visit this Utah Christmas town.
advertisement
As you can see, Park City's Historic Main Street is quaint and charming year-round, but in the wintertime, we think it's particularly pretty.
During Christmas in Park City, Main Street is all dressed up in holiday splendor. Holiday lights are strung across the street and adorn individual businesses.
We suggest bundling up and taking a stroll along this festive street for some window shopping. Who knows? You might find the perfect gift for an upcoming party during your Park City Utah Christmas excursion.
Plus, one of the best things about Park City Main Street, Utah is that many of the shops are locally owned. This means your purchases are unique, and your money supports local business owners.
In addition to lots of great shopping, Main Street offers tons of dining options. Whether you're looking for a quick slice of pizza, or you're in the mood for a tasty steak, you'll have plenty of choices to choose from during your visit to Park City during the Christmas season.
Of course, you'll want to keep your eyes open because you might see Santa and Mrs. Claus during your time in this Utah Christmas town. Stop by and say hello. You certainly want to keep your standing on the Naughty or Nice list.
Part of enjoying the holidays in this popular Utah town includes taking part in events such as their annual electric light parade. Around town, there are also events such as the popular tree lighting ceremony at Canyons Village and the annual torchlight parades.
So, what are you waiting for? Make sure to add a trip to Park City's Historic Main Street to your holiday calendar this year!
Are you planning to visit Park City's Main Street during the holidays? If so, let us know what you're looking forward to when you visit this Utah Christmas town. And, if you'd like to take more day trips throughout Utah during the holiday season, I recommend checking out these Utah Christmas towns. For longer stays, check out Vrbo for vacation rentals. There are some truly incredible places to stay near Park City.
School pride runs strong in Utah. Even if it has been years since you went to college, you likely still hold a special place in your heart for your alma mater. You may even go back and visit occasionally (like I do!). And while visiting your old college campus will flood you with memories, it is just the beginning of the fabulous places to visit and explore. Many Utah college towns are the perfect destination for exploration and adventure and the following five are ideal for your next weekend away.
advertisement
Editor’s Note: Please don’t think we have forgotten about the many colleges and universities along the Wasatch Front. We love these schools. We simply want you to explore some of the other charming destinations in Utah for a weekend getaway.
1.
Logan, Utah
I may be a little biased but no list of the best college towns in Utah is complete without naming Logan (it is my alma mater after all). While Utah State University is a beautiful campus that sits at the mouth of Logan Canyon and features fantastic areas like the Quad and Old Main, it’s easy to spend a weekend exploring Cache Valley. If you only have a day or two, I suggest activities such as walking historic downtown, watching a performance at the Ellen Eccles Theater (which was built in 1923), and exploring Zootah, a charming small zoo. You’ll also want to spend some time in Logan Canyon (particularly in the autumn when the fall foliage is at its peak) and grab a frozen treat at Aggie Ice Cream.
2. Ephraim, Snow College
Not only is Ephraim absolutely beautiful but it is a small town that is packed with history. This town dates back to the 1850s and is nicknamed “Little Denmark” because of the diversity of people who live there. In addition to the historic buildings throughout the town, visit the Great Basin Station, a historical landmark in a renovated U.S. Forest Service research facility. I also recommend taking a scenic drive down Ephraim Canyon Road, going on a hike, and grabbing some dinner at one of the locally owned restaurants in town.
3. Price, Utah State University Eastern
Price is one Utah college town that is often overlooked, particularly for weekend adventures. While there are activities at Utah State University Eastern you can attend, this town is also home to the USU Eastern Prehistoric Museum. If you want to spend plenty of time outdoors, this is a delightful place to be as this town is near Goblin Valley State Park, the Cleveland-Lloyd Dinosaur Quarry, Nine Mile Canyon, and the San Rafael Swell.
4. Cedar City, Southern Utah University
If you wish to venture down south, there’s nothing quite like a weekend adventure in Cedar City. This town is home to Southern Utah University (SUU) and there are always activities and events for you to enjoy throughout the year. If you wish to spend some time in town, learn at the Frontier Homestead State Park or admire masterpieces at the Southern Utah Museum of Art. I love to visit Cedar Breaks National Monument and hike the beautiful Red Hollow Trail. This college town is also near both Zion National Park and Bryce Canyon National Park if you want even more adventure.
5. St. George, Utah Tech University
advertisement
Yes, I know that St. George is a city rather than a town but it deserved to be on this list as it makes for one incredible weekend getaway. In fact, here there is so much to see and do that you will barely scratch the surface of activities offered in a weekend. If the weather cooperates, I recommend exploring Red Hills Desert Garden, Pioneer Park, and Snow Canyon State Park. You can also go hiking at Red Cliffs Recreation Area and play in the water at Sand Hollow State Park. Spend some time shopping at Town Square or watch a performance at Tuacahn Amphitheatre. If you become hungry, make sure you visit Croshaw’s Gourmet Pie Shop.
What is your favorite college town in Utah? Did you attend any of the colleges or universities on our list? Let us know in the comments. We would love to hear from you.